Using a Single Basket with a Breville or Sage Home Espresso Machine
When I first began using my Breville (or Sage) espresso machine, I quickly realized that brewing a perfect single espresso wasn’t as easy as just using half the amount of coffee from a double shot. The machine comes equipped with both single and double filter baskets, and while pulling a double shot seemed intuitive, mastering the single shot required more finesse and careful adjustments.
Understanding Single vs. Double Filter Baskets
How Basket Shape Affects Extraction
One of the first things I noticed was the distinct shape of the single basket—it has a tapered, conical design, unlike the flat-bottomed double basket. While this difference might seem minor, it actually has a significant impact on how the water flows through the coffee grounds. The narrower base in the single basket causes water to flow more quickly, often leading to uneven extraction. This can result in some parts of your espresso being under-extracted while others are over-extracted.
Due to this uneven flow, I found it difficult to achieve the same rich, balanced flavor that I enjoyed with a double shot. In side-by-side comparisons, the double shot (even when split into two cups) consistently produced a fuller body and more satisfying aftertaste than the single shot.
Adjusting Your Technique for the Single Basket
1. Increasing the Coffee Dose
One of the first changes I made was adjusting the coffee dose. At first, I thought simply halving the amount of coffee used for a double shot would be enough—around 9 grams instead of the 18 grams I typically used. However, this resulted in a shot that pulled too quickly, leaving a weak, flat taste. After some experimentation, I found that using closer to 10 grams of coffee produced a better extraction time and resulted in a richer, more flavorful shot.
2. Fine-Tuning the Grind Size
Another essential adjustment was refining the grind size. My initial single shots were flowing too fast, signaling that my grind was too coarse. After adjusting the grinder to a slightly finer setting, I saw a significant improvement in both shot timing and flavor balance. A finer grind slows down the water flow, leading to more even extraction and a smoother espresso.
3. Utilizing a 1:2 Brew Ratio
One of the most valuable tools in my setup was a digital scale. Weighing both the coffee grounds and the resulting espresso allowed me to stick to a 1:2 brew ratio—meaning, for every gram of coffee, I aim to extract double that amount in liquid espresso. For 10 grams of coffee, I aim to pull about 20 grams of espresso. Maintaining this ratio helped me avoid weak or overly concentrated shots, delivering a more balanced flavor.
Maintaining Your Espresso Grinder for Consistent Results
Purging the Grinder Between Baskets
When switching between single and double baskets, it's important to take extra care with your grinder. After adjusting the grind size for a single shot, it’s crucial to purge the grinder to clear out any leftover grounds from the previous setting. This ensures shot consistency and prevents old grounds from interfering with your espresso's flavor and extraction process.
The Unique Challenges and Rewards of the Single Basket
Perfecting Your Single Shot Technique
While using the single basket is undoubtedly more challenging than the double, I found that the effort is worth it once you get it right. It requires more attention to detail and a little patience, but the result is a clean, concentrated shot of espresso. This single shot is perfect for milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, where a less overpowering coffee flavor works best.
If you prefer a single shot for your milk-based beverages or enjoy the lighter, more nuanced flavor of a single espresso, it’s worth taking the time to refine your technique. Everyone’s machine, taste preferences, and techniques vary, so don’t hesitate to experiment with grind sizes, doses, and extraction times until you find the right balance for your perfect shot.
Final Thoughts on the Single Basket
Navigating the Learning Curve
Getting the hang of using the single basket on a Breville or Sage espresso machine can feel a bit tricky at first, but it’s a rewarding learning experience. The conical shape of the basket requires careful adjustments to your coffee dose and grind size to avoid uneven extraction. However, with persistence and a little trial and error, you’ll be able to pull flavorful, balanced single shots that complement all your espresso-based drinks.
In the end, mastering the single basket has made me a more skilled and mindful home barista. It has deepened my understanding of espresso extraction and improved my overall coffee game. With a bit of practice, I’m confident it will do the same for you. Happy brewing!